Statement from Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, in response to reports of an anti-immigration march on Saturday 13 June…
“Liverpool has always been a proud, diverse and welcoming city, built on solidarity, respect and a deep sense of community.
“We respect everyone’s right to march peacefully. That is a fundamental part of our democratic society. However, we condemn any attempt to cause division in our communities. This march is designed to intimidate, to provoke fear and to deepen division in our communities, and it has no place in a city like Liverpool that stands for solidarity, decency and respect.
“It is my strong opinion that this event should not be permitted as it will cause significant disruption and distress to local residents and businesses. There are real and justified concerns about the suitability of this area to safely host an event of this nature and about the potential impact on community safety and cohesion.
“Given the events on County Road in the summer of 2024—when racially motivated violence and disorder led to Spellow Library being set alight—these concerns cannot and should not be dismissed. We must not allow a situation to develop where communities feel threatened or unsafe again.
“Our Community Safety team is working closely with local communities and Merseyside Police to ensure that people feel supported and safe. While the council does not have the legal authority to prevent such a march, we expect the highest level of scrutiny, oversight, and adherence to legal conditions.
“Let me be absolutely clear: Liverpool will always stand against hate, intimidation and attempts to divide our communities. We will continue to stand together, support one another, and defend the values that make this city what it is.
“Liverpool will always be a city of hope, not hate.”
- Get the facts about immigration and asylum by reading our mythbuster:https://liverpoolexpress.co.uk/immigration-and-refugees/
